Bhringraj oil can indeed be a powerful ally in addressing hair thinning and promoting hair growth, deeply rooted in its nourishing and rejuvenative properties inherent in Ayurvedic practice. Here’s a simple way to make bhringraj oil at home, keeping the process straightforward and manageable.
Start with bhringraj leaves; if you can find fresh ones, great — if not, dried leaves are a useful alternative. You’ll want about 100 grams of these leaves. Crush the fresh leaves into a paste using a mortar and pestle, or if you’re using dried leaves, powder them as finely as possible using a grinder.
Choose a suitable base oil like coconut oil, as it’s deeply moisturizing and penetrates well into the scalp, aiding in absorption. Sesame oil is a good alternative if you prefer something lighter. Measure around 200 ml of your chosen oil and place it in a small saucepan.
Now, add the bhringraj paste or powder to the oil. Heat this mixture on low flame — gentle heat is essential to avoid damaging the beneficial components of the bhringraj. Let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the moisture in the mix evaporates and the oil changes color, often becoming slightly greenish. Once done, let the oil cool and then strain it through a cheesecloth to remove all solid particles.
Store this bhringraj oil in a clean glass bottle. For application, massage a small amount into your scalp and hair a couple of times a week. Leave it on for a minimum of one hour, or even overnight if possible, to allow the essence of the bhringraj to penetrate deeply. Washing it out with a mild shampoo should suffice.
Applying it every day might not be necessary and can lead to clogged pores or oily buildup, so assess how your hair and scalp respond. This approach can help harmonize any Pitta imbalances contributing to hair thinning. If your hair is experiencing excessive dryness, adjust the frequency or try a different base oil like olive oil.
While famously beneficial, bhringraj oil might need a few weeks before you observe noticeable changes, due to the natural growth cycle of hair. Also, if you’re prone to dandruff or very oily scalps, consider discussing your routine with a practitioner to ensure it complements your overall dosha profile.
